Acute adrenal crisis

Acute adrenal crisis (also known as Addisonian crisis or adrenal insufficiency crisis) is a medical emergency and potentially life-threatening situation requiring immediate emergency treatment. It is characterized by a set of symptoms that occur when there is not enough of the hormone cortisol. This can happen for a variety of reasons, but it is most often due to a person with Addison's disease not taking their medication.

Causes

Acute adrenal crisis is most commonly caused by a person with Addison's disease not taking their prescribed glucocorticoids. Other causes can include physical stress, such as an injury, infection, or illness.

Symptoms

Symptoms of an acute adrenal crisis include sudden, severe pain in the lower back, abdomen, or legs; severe vomiting and diarrhea, leading to dehydration; low blood pressure; and loss of consciousness. If not treated, an acute adrenal crisis can be fatal.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of an acute adrenal crisis is based on the patient's medical history, a physical examination, and laboratory tests. Blood tests are used to measure levels of cortisol and adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH).

Treatment

Treatment of an acute adrenal crisis involves immediate medical care to restore the levels of cortisol in the body. This is usually done by administering hydrocortisone, a type of glucocorticoid, either by injection or intravenously.

Prevention

Prevention of an acute adrenal crisis involves taking prescribed medications as directed, and seeking medical attention if severe symptoms of adrenal insufficiency occur.

See also

• Addison's disease
• Adrenal gland
• Adrenal insufficiency
• Cortisol
• Adrenocorticotropic hormone